Planning on moving to New Jersey? While the Garden State can be costly, there are still plenty of affordable New Jersey cities to live in! Take a look at these nine affordable places to live in New Jersey offering low costs of living, tons of things to do, and close proximity to major cities like New York City and Philadelphia.
Clayton
- Population: 8,688
- Home Price: $208,100 median purchase price; $963 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 55% of New Jersey cities
- Unemployment Rate: 4.6%
Looking for an affordable New Jersey town packed with unique charm? Consider moving to Clayton, a sparse borough that offers small-town vibes, along with access to major cities like Philly and Atlantic City. This borough is a great place for families, with quality education at Clayton public schools like Herma Simmons Elementary School and Clayton High School. It’s also perfect for getting involved with community events or youth sports organizations like Clayton Little League. And with a third of Clayton’s land dedicated to parks and recreation, the borough is a great place to spend time outdoors. Home to museums, trails, and shopping malls, there are plenty of ways for residents of all ages to enjoy cost-effective living in Clayton.
Things to Do in Clayton
Appreciate New Jersey history and culture with a collection of personal papers, photographs, and early maps at The Clayton Historic Museum. Go fishing or kayaking and admire live snakes and frogs in The Nature Center at Scotland Run Park—the largest park in the county. Hike through deciduous forest swamps and spot migrating birds like scarlet tanagers and prothonotary warblers at the Glassboro Wildlife Management Area. Start your day with Chunky Monkey Pancakes or get authentic Mexican/American entrees like Ribeye Paninis and Shrimp Fajitas at Neri’s Cafe and Mexican Grill. Try a ROB Sandwich followed by a specialty sundae or malt for one of the best lunches in Clayton at Twin Kiss Drive-In. Grab a slice of Clayton pizza like the Chicken Bacon Rancher or Bianca Trio Pizza, or taste Italian dishes like Baked Ziti and Steak Stromboli at Nick’s Pizza. Or sample delicious hand-crafted desserts like Amaretto Cheesecake and Cheesecake Cupcakes at Yhanne’s House of Cheesecakes.
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Gloucester City
- Population: 11,229
- Home Price: $130,600 median purchase price; $1,107 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 16% of New Jersey cities
- Unemployment Rate: 3.1%
Find an eclectic mix of waterfront views and active nightlife in Gloucester City, one of the most affordable places to live in New Jersey! This vibrant city sits along the Delaware River at the border of New Jersey and Pennsylvania, and it’s connected to Philadelphia by the famous Walt Whitman Bridge. Families will appreciate top-rated schools like Gloucester City Middle School and Gloucester City High School. Meanwhile, residents can explore some of the best state parks in and around Gloucester City or get immersed in rich history and culture with the Gloucester City Historical Society. This affordable New Jersey city is also a hub for bar and marina culture, so there’s always something to experience.
Things to Do in Gloucester City
Explore the Gloucester City waterfront by taking in scenic views of the Delaware River at Proprietors Park or renting a boat at the Gloucester City Marina. Take a sightseeing cruise from Freedom Pier on The North Wind Schooner to see historic sites and ships like the USS New Jersey, SS United States, and SS Olympia. Check out the latest fiction and nonfiction releases, or get your little one involved in weekly Storytime or Toddler Playgroup events at the Gloucester City Library. Browse fresh seasonal produce with homegrown ingredients like scallions, parsley, and cilantro at Verchio’s Produce & Deli in nearby Brooklawn. Swing through Gloucester City taverns for a Grilled Reuben Sandwich at The Highland Tavern or a signature Chicken Cheesesteak Sandwich from Tavern on the Edge. Spend the evening eating craft Portobello Burgers and sipping a Key Lime Pie Martini at authentic Irish pub Holy City Publick House. Or have a steak dinner with in-house premium beef like Filet Mignon and Ribeye at Chubby’s Steakhouse.
Hightstown
- Population: 5,334
- Home Price: $284,400 median purchase price; $1,372 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 50% of New Jersey cities
- Unemployment Rate: 3.3%
Wanting to live in a small town in New Jersey? Check out Hightstown in Central New Jersey! Not only does Hightstown offer an affordable cost of living, but you’ll also be halfway between New York City and Philadelphia, which means you can easily commute to work or enjoy weekend getaways. In town, families with school-aged children can choose from great institutions like Hightstown High and The Peddie School—a top-rated New Jersey private school. For those seeking higher education, the prestigious Princeton University is only 20 minutes down the road. And if you’re looking for relaxing views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Jersey Shore is less than an hour away!
Things to Do in Hightstown
Walk around Peddie Lake, go fishing, or have a picnic at Hightstown Memorial Park. Attend open or family swim times, or sign your little ones up for swim lessons at the Peddie Aquatic Center. Find locally-made artwork, home decor, and gifts for friends and family at Perennial Home in Allentown. Grab deli subs and sandwiches like an Avocado BLT, Grilled Chicken, or Turkey Club Sandwich for lunch at The Hightstown Diner. Take in views of the lake, listen to live local music, and dig in to a Greek Salmon Burger or Seafood Risotto at Tavern on the Lake. Get a taste of Jamaican eats with Morgan’s Special Wrap or the Redemption Salad at Morgan’s Island Grill. Discover new brews like the Fence Sitter Pale Ale or 1721 Lager at Old Hights Brewing Company. Or have a farm-to-table Hightstown brunch by ordering the Wild Boar Benedict or Baked Cinnamon Custard French Toast at 12 Farms Restaurant.
Phillipsburg
- Population: 14,303
- Home Price: $144,200 median purchase price; $971 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 17% of New Jersey cities
- Unemployment Rate: 3.3%
If you want a close-knit community paired with affordable living, Phillipsburg may be the perfect fit! This affordable New Jersey town is right on the Pennsylvania border, offering easy access to premier shopping, dining, and family-friendly activities like the Crayola Experience in neighboring Easton. You’ll also be close to fantastic water recreation like Twin Rivers Tubing, since Phillipsburg sits on the Delaware River and is less than an hour from the Poconos. There’s a lot to discover in Warren County’s largest city!
Things to Do in Phillipsburg
Book a tour with Delaware River Railroad Excursions and see the beauty of West Jersey with an excursion on the River Train, the Winery Train, or the Mine Train. Learn more about the history of New Jersey railroads or attend annual events like the Phillipsburg Railroad Festival and Pork Roll Palooza at the Phillipsburg Railroad Historians Museum. Book a tee time to play your way through the courses at Harkers Hollow Golf Club. Practice on athletic fields, go picnicking with family, or splash around the community pool at Walter’s Park. Fill up on yummy menu items like the Sausage and Egg Sandwich, Cuban Panini, or Buffalo Wings Basket at Key City Diner in bordering Lopatcong—one of New Jersey’s best diners. Have slices of brick oven Phillipsburg pizza like the Roma, Bianca Verde, and Jack’s Special Pizza at Jack’s Pizzeria. Eat classic Cheese Steaks or Cheese Steak Sliders with the signature hot or mild sauces at Joe’s Steak Shop. Or catch a bite after hitting the green with delicious items like the Truffle Burger, Philly Cheesesteak, or Fish and Chips at Uniontown Bar & Grill, located at Harker’s Hollow Golf Club.
Pitman
- Population: 8,785
- Home Price: $189,700 median purchase price; $1,303 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 22% of New Jersey cities
- Unemployment Rate: 6.0%
Pitman is an affordable place to live in New Jersey that attracts tons of young professionals, thanks to the bustling business district in Uptown Pitman and its vast selection of local businesses. Residents of all ages love Pitman’s beautiful parks and coffee shops, which capture the city’s small-town atmosphere and charm. If you’re looking for a more urban experience on the weekends, Pitman offers access to big cities like Philadelphia and Atlantic City, both of which are under an hour away. For those planning their commute, Pitman is a fairly walkable city with well-established public transit like the Glassboro-Camden Line and the NJ Transit Train, so you can get around town and the surrounding cities with ease.
Things to Do in Pitman
Grab a bundle of fresh produce and veggies or baked goods, or participate in seasonal family events like strawberry and apple picking at Duffield’s Farm Market. See a live musical, concert, or children’s theatre production at Broadway Theatre of Pitman, a renovated 1920s-era entertainment venue. Go picnicking with family or play recreational sports like softball, pickleball, or basketball at James G. Atkinson Memorial Park. Get your kids involved in hockey clubs like the Hollydell Havoc or Hollydell Hurricanes—or lace up your skates for public skating sessions at Hollydell Ice Arena. Take part in a delicious Pitman breakfast of Lobster Benedict, Tiger Shrimp Tacos, or a Milkweed Truffled Egg Sandwich at Milkweed Table + Market. Enjoy New American cuisine like Broiled Crab Cakes or Grilled Ahi Tuna at Carolina Blue, “South Jersey’s premier smokehouse and taproom.” Grab slices of Chicken Bruschetta or Veggie Deluxe Pizza, or munch on a Meatball Sandwich with a side of Onion Rings at Papa Luigi. Or savor classic pub fare like a Boardroom Burger or Philly Cheesesteak with a signature Stateside Summer Breeze cocktail at Merryman’s Pub.
Pompton Lakes
- Population: 10,998
- Home Price: $324,700 median purchase price; $1,451 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 63% of New Jersey cities
- Unemployment Rate: 2.8%
Do you spend most of your time outdoors? Consider living in Pompton Lakes! This affordable New Jersey town has three rivers running through it and sits along Pompton Lake, so you’ll have tons of water activities right in your own backyard! And if that isn’t enough outdoor recreation in town, Norvin Green State Forest is only 15 minutes away and offers hiking, boating, and fishing. Of course, spending time outside is just one of many things to do in Pompton Lakes. You’ll also find a variety of restaurants and cafes, local arts and culture, and more!
Things to Do in Pompton Lakes
Rent a paddle boat, go fishing, or walk along the water at Pompton Lake. Watch your kids run around the playground, practice your tennis swing, or walk the rustic trails at Hershfield Park. Solve puzzles, riddles, and mental challenges in themed rooms like Awaken or The Otherside: Room 401 at Pompton Lakes Escape Room. Watch local productions of musicals and plays like Cabaret of Dreams or All My Sons on the stage at Star Royale Theatre. Try Italian dishes like Shrimp and Scallops, Chicken Carmelo, and Vegan Ravioli at Axton’s, the restaurant of Chef Anton (who competed on TV shows like Chopped and Hell’s Kitchen). Splurge on a meal of Grilled Salmon, Shrimp Scampi, or the New York Sirloin at Black Bull Steakhouse & Seafood. Dine on Spanish and Portuguese-style meals like Camarones Provencal and Solomillo ao Porto at Vila Verde. Or head to Mr. Sushi for specialty Pompton Lakes sushi rolls like the Garden State, Spicy Girl, and Izumi Special.
[nearby_stores map=’0′ lat=’40.0656171′ lng=’-76.0464271′]Rahway
- Population: 29,691
- Home Price: $276,500 median purchase price; $1,271 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 40% of New Jersey cities
- Unemployment Rate: 4.5%
About 14 miles south of Newark, you’ll find the City of Rahway. Not only can you find affordable New Jersey housing here, but Rahway also has a bustling arts and culture scene, plenty of unique dining experiences, and charming local shops to check out. If you’re looking to get involved in the community and meet new people, the city hosts several events throughout the year. And since Rahway is also part of the New York City metropolitan area, traveling to Manhattan—only about 30 miles away—is accessible via car or train.
Things to Do in Rahway
Go fishing or biking while taking in scenic lakefront views at Milton Lake Park. Walk your four-legged friend, have a picnic, or explore the athletic fields at Rahway River Park. Tour an 1820s-style New Jersey bar and taproom while learning more about early American history at The Merchants and Drovers Tavern Museum. Watch a classic film or musical, or catch a live music performance at Union County Performing Arts Center. Snack on fresh-baked pastries like Mocha Coffee Cupcakes and Wild Berry Scones while sipping an iced latte at The Coffee Box. Get a taste of Cuban food at CubaNu Restaurant & Lounge, where you can try Mofongo, Pollo ala Plancha, or Bacalaitos. Find brews like the Tastes Like Summer Watermelon Wheat or Trolley Hepper at Wet Ticket Brewing. Or indulge your sweet tooth with the Dirty Blondie or Matcha Love Rahway rolled ice creams from Melao Cafe & Creamery.
Toms River
- Population: 90,081
- Home Price: $292,700 median purchase price; $1,455 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 50% of New Jersey cities
- Unemployment Rate: 2.9%
Located along the coast of the Atlantic Ocean is the seaside Township of Toms River—a favorite among young adults, families, and retirees alike that is only a little over an hour’s drive away from both NYC and Philadelphia. If you love hanging out by the water, this affordable New Jersey city has beach areas and waterfront activities at spots like Ortley Beach and Seaside Heights to keep you busy! Those moving to Toms River can also find affordable housing and apartments close to shopping, dining, and nightlife destinations.
Things to Do in Toms River
Go bird-watching at the Cooper Environmental Center or hike to scenic overlooks near Barnegat Bay at Cattus Island County Park. See spiders in the Creepy Cavern, honeybees at Hive Airport, and other bugs at Insectropolis, “the Bugseum of New Jersey.” Play old-school arcade games and a round of 18-hole mini golf at Barnacle Bill’s Amusements. Swim in the ocean, relax in the sand, or trek down the boardwalk at Ortley Beach. Visit Uncle Dood’s Donuts for iced-to-order donuts—and be sure to try their monthly flavor specials! Eat upscale Chinese bites like Peking Duck and Fried Diver Sea Scallops at Xina. Order a Tex Mex Burger or the Chicken n’ Waffles sandwich with a Strawberry Milkshake at Burger 25. Or try New Jersey craft beers like the Irish Eyes IPA and Raise Helles Lager at Toms River Brewing.
Vineland
- Population: 59,405
- Home Price: $170,300 median purchase price; $1,064 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 7% of New Jersey cities
- Unemployment Rate: 5%
Vineland stands out as one of the most affordable places to live in New Jersey, offering a relaxed, small-town atmosphere paired with reasonable home prices. This South Jersey city has a strong sense of community, highlighted by popular community events like the Dandelion Party, the Gyro Festival, and the Cruise Down Memory Lane car show. Residents can enjoy shopping and dining along Landis Avenue—a.k.a “The Ave“—or take day-trips to major metros nearby like Philadelphia, New York City, Washington D.C., and Baltimore. If you’re searching for an affordable New Jersey city to settle down in, Vineland delivers laid-back vibes and regional connectivity.
Things to Do in Vineland
Spend time exploring peaceful trails and bird-watching at Vineland parks like the Willow Oak Natural Area or Anthony Campanella Park. Tee off at the Eastlyn Golf Course, which offers a well-maintained course for both casual and competitive golfers. Catch live music and shows like the Psycho Circus KISSmas Show, Nicks In Time – Tribute to Stevie Nicks, or Haus of Monsters – Tribute to Lady Gaga at the historical Landis Theater. Shop your favorite brands at The Cumberland Mall. When it’s time to eat, stop by some of the best restaurants in Vineland! Dig in to specialty dishes like The Chicken Hitman, Parmageddon, or the Shrimpwreck while catching a game at the Vineland sports bar, The Bite. Enjoy Mediterranean flavors with the Lobster Ravioli, Veal Parm, or Linguini Sicilliano at The Green Olive. Grab a hearty Bacon Jam Smash Burger, Long Hot Cheese Steak, or Classic Fried Chicken Sandwich paired with a shake or ice cream cone at Outlaw’s Burger Barn & Creamery! Or reserve a table for a date night over delicious Italian-style dishes like the Lobster Fra Diavolo, Shrimp Scampi, or Homemade Spaghetti at Maplewood III.
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The goal of Extra Space Storage’s Best Places to Live selections is to help diverse audiences at varying stages of life make informed decisions about where to live. To provide a well-rounded and accurate view of each metro area, we consider factors like cost of living, job market, local attractions, education, and more. Learn more about our methodology today.
City statistics from AreaVibes
